Called the Starship, the vehicle will undertake a coast-to-coast journey across the US next month, carrying the maximum viable amount of freight within the allowed gvw of 80,000lbs/36,287kg.
The freight-tonne efficiency and fuel economy will be measured during the road trial and the results will be shared publicly. Shell and AirFlow believe freight-tonne efficiency – defined as the energy required to move goods from A to B – is the most meaningful measurement of efficiency of freight transportation.
Shell provided technical consultation on Starship’s engine and drivetrain components, as well as recommendations for lubricants, and the truck is using Shell’s fully synthetic heavy-duty engine oil.
The vehicle’s aerodynamic features include: a full carbon-fibre cab; active grill shutters, which open and close to adjust air flow; and boat tail.
It also has a hybrid electric axle system, to boost power on uphill gradients; a customised automatic tyre inflation system; and a 5,000W solar array to charge and store power for electrical components.
For more details on the Starship project, click the link below.